Toluca Lake - GoKawiil

Universal Studios Hollywood to add new sound barrier after Fast & Furious ride noise complaints

Universal Studios Hollywood has agreed to build another sound barrier around its new Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster after residents of the nearby Toluca Lake neighborhood complained about riders' screams. At a meeting with over 350 attendees, park executives also agreed the ride will not operate between 8AM and 9AM for the rest of the year. The ride, which opened September 16th, already includes noise-reduction measures such as an existing sound barrier and cars designed to turn away from homes during loud moments.

theverge.com · 2026-10-01

Universal's noise-engineered roller coaster still draws neighbor complaints over rider screams

Universal Studios Hollywood spent three years and heavy engineering—pea gravel track fill, glass 'scream screens,' and a 940-foot sound wall—to minimize noise from a new 72-mph looping coaster near a residential area. The measures worked during rider-free tests, but once real passengers boarded, nearby residents reported constant, piercing screams every 30 seconds throughout operating hours. Universal is now adding more sound barriers and adjusting hours to address the ongoing complaints.

entrepreneur.com · 2026-08-25